Arsenal striker Joel Campbell: Lorient experience good for me

Arsenal striker Joel Campbell feels his development has accelerated thanks to his loan with Lorient.

Arsenal striker Joel Campbell feels his development has accelerated thanks to his loan with Lorient.

Campbell is set to join Arsenal for pre-season training in July and believes his time in France has been a hugely positive learning experience.

“It was tough for me because I wanted to play for Arsenal this season,” the 19-year-old striker told Arsenal Player. “But it’s a new experience for me and it’s a question of doing well, learning from European football and then coming back to Arsenal.

"Coming to Lorient has been really good for me. It’s a new experience for me to come and get a taste of French football, which is very competitive. I’ve learnt a lot here.

“I came here just before the fourth round of games in Ligue 1 and they gave me the best possible welcome. They helped me and got me settled down quickly in the team so I could help them and the side. Lorient play a very similar game to Arsenal and that’s helped me for what lies ahead.

“Football in France is very tactical, very tough and very physical. It’s been great for me, though. I’ve learnt a lot from the football here and I hope it helps me for my career."